Charles Podowski, 64

Connection Ranking: 43

Came to the Auto Club Group from Advanta Corp. in 1999 and oversaw the group's rapid growth, which has been hampered in recent years by increased competition, leading to layoffs. Is a director of natural gas distributor Semco Energy Inc. in Port Huron and serves on the AAA national board.

Civic involvement: Board member, Business Leaders for Michigan, Detroit Zoological Society and Henry Ford Health System; served as chairman of the Michigan Campaign of the United Negro College Fund.